G 6th Guitar Chord — Open D
Guitar chord voicings in Open D tuning (D-A-D-F#-A-D)
G 6th Voicings in Open D
G 6th filtered by fret:
G 6th in Open D Tuning — Guide
The G 6th chord is made up of the following notes: G, B, D, E.
Intervals: 1P, 3M, 5P, 6M.
The G 6th chord in Open D tuning (D-A-D-F#-A-D) requires different fingerings than standard tuning.
The G sixth chord adds a major sixth to a major triad, producing G, B, D, E with intervals 1P, 3M, 5P, 6M. This extra note gives the chord a warm, vintage sweetness that was a signature of early jazz, swing, and Hawaiian music. Unlike seventh chords, sixths feel resolved and cheerful, making them perfect for endings, vamps, and anywhere a classic, golden-age aesthetic is desired.
How to Play G 6th
On guitar, G 6 typically requires a barre or partial barre voicing. Experiment with different positions to find the voicing that best suits your playing context — higher positions sound brighter and tighter, while lower positions offer more bass and resonance. CAGED system shapes help navigate these options efficiently.
G 6th in Progressions
G sixth often substitutes for G major or G major seventh as a tonic chord, especially in jazz standards and swing. It provides a resolved but colorful ending and works well in turnarounds and vamp sections.
Common Substitutions
Gmaj7, Em7, or G6/9 substitute naturally, as the sixth and minor seventh inversions are closely related.
Difficulty: On guitar, this chord is intermediate — a barre or partial barre is likely needed, but the shape is manageable with practice.